A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, causing pain and stiffness.
From Greek 'osteon' (bone), 'arthron' (joint), and '-itis' (inflammation). The term was coined in medical Latin in the 19th century as understanding of joint diseases advanced.
Osteoarthritis is sometimes called 'wear and tear' arthritis, but it's actually a complex process involving the entire joint structure, not just simple mechanical wearing. Evidence of this condition has been found in dinosaur fossils, showing it's affected vertebrates for millions of years.
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